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For additional information: |
Johnny Diloné, Environmental Services Public Information Officer |
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Office: 602-506-6611 Cell: 602-525-2423 |
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Jeanene Fowler, Public Health Public Information Officer |
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Office: 602-506-4926 Cell: 602-722-1806 |
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September 4, 2009 |
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Mosquitoes are ‘in the works’—
‘Fight the Bite’ on Labor Day!!!
Summer is winding down, but storms are still hitting the Valley. As the last major holiday of summer is here, Maricopa County residents must not let their guard down from the potential risk of West Nile virus (WNV).
Mosquito breeding season is still in its peak. The heat and recent monsoon rains provide ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. It is essential to follow necessary recommendations to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and reduce the possibility of being bitten. Maricopa County departments of Public Health and Environmental Services remind County residents of the potential threat of WNV and the need to take proper precautions to prevent contracting the disease.
This Labor Day weekend whatever your plans may entail, it is important to be alert while spending time outdoors, whether entertaining, camping, in the yard, or enjoying other various activities.
There are several things that the public can do to protect themselves against West Nile virus, including:
- When outdoors wear a mosquito repellant (follow label instructions, especially for use on children)
- Eliminate mosquito-breeding sites around your property by removing standing water in potted plants, tires, buckets, and other containers
- Keep fountains and swimming pools properly operating and free from debris
- Report stagnant water such as green pools to Maricopa County
- Repair damaged window and door screens
- Contact Maricopa County for possible WNV infected dead birds drop-off locations
- When outdoors wear long sleeves and long pants to prevent mosquito bites
- Avoid outdoor activity before dawn and after dusk when mosquitoes are most active
Thus far this year, Maricopa County Public Health and Environmental Services departments have received laboratory confirmation of 13 human cases of WNV, and 41 WNV positive mosquito samples, and 1 infected bird.
For more information on West Nile virus, as well as for WNV dead bird drop-off locations, to report green pools or file any mosquito related complaint, to set-up an appointment to obtain mosquito eating fish, and for WNV materials or presentations for your group/organization, call (602) 506-0700 or visit www.maricopa.gov/wnv
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